The phrase, “It takes a village,” comes to life when speaking of putting on a successful youth baseball tournament. The citizens of Albert Lea can be very proud of the kind-hearted individuals and businesses we have in this community. Without their support the Albert Lea Knights Invitational Baseball Tournament and program would not have been successful. On June 19-21, the Albert Lea Knights hosted 20 teams from 15 different communities ranging from St. Paul to Waverly, Iowa, for a Little League baseball tournament. This tournament consisted of three separate brackets: 11U AA, 10U AA and 10U A.

The excitement for our tournament started off with a special two-page spread in the Albert Lea Tribune. This created interest in the community for our baseball program. Mrs. Gerry’s, Country Hearth Bread and J&B Group helped supply our concession stand with delicious food. The staff at Hy-Vee took great care of our needs when we needed to refurbish the stand. Western Rental provided our visitors with shelter from rain and sun. The Freeborn-County Chamber of Commerce ensured that each visiting player received a special Albert Lea promotional bag full of coupons from area businesses.

We also received financial support from local clubs and businesses. The Moose Lodge has been especially generous with their support, hosting our pancake benefit and karaoke event this past spring.

Occasionally some community members get bogged down in negativity, but you only have to look at the faces of the Albert Lea Knights players to know that we have many special gifts within our community.

During the tournament we received many positive comments from our guests not only regarding the baseball event but the community as a whole.

They left Albert Lea with appreciation, respect and the intent to return again next year.

Managers Stan Thompson, John Ball, Matt Larson and I cannot speak of the tournament without mentioning the umpires. All umpires supported and encouraged all teams in the fundamentals of baseball. A special acknowledgement must go to the parents for your dedication to the sport and for instilling a passion for America’s favorite pastime in your children.

Kelly Bordewick

director

Knights Baseball

Albert Lea